Three violent burglars who posed as police officers stole £20,000 in cash after forcing their way inside a south London house and holding the occupants hostage.
The trio, who carried handcuffs and wore utility belts and black baseball caps with “police” on them, had knocked at the address in Featherbed Lane, Croydon and claimed they investigating tax evasion and money laundering. They even produced fake warrant cards.
After the residents challenged their story they forced their way inside, forcing one man to the floor and using cable tying his hands behind his back.
The fake officers demanded money and threatened to “tear the place apart” if they weren’t told where it was kept.
The suspects were able to steal more than £20,000 in cash, as well as a high powered air rifle, before returning to their silver Insignia where a getaway driver was waiting for them.
The vehicle, displaying a false number plate of NA0 8XHZ, was then seen to drive back along Featherbed Lane, away from Croydon.
Scotland Yard has now released a CCTV image of the three suspects in the burglary, which took place between 4.55pm and 5.11pm on October 25 last year.
In a statement:
- The first man was a light skinned black male, around 5’9-10 tall, with dark eyes, black stubble, aged around 40, of medium build with a south London accent.
- The second man was a white male, 6’3-4 tall, aged between 40 and 45, with blue eyes and mousy brown hair.
- The third man was a white male, aged 40-45, of heavy build.
Any witnesses, or anyone with information that could help identify the men in the pictures should call police on 101 quoting crime reference 3832626/20.
Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers, anonymously, by calling 0800 555 111.
